Bill Martin – Troop C District 4 – Order of the Long Leaf Pine

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William “Bill” Nission Martin retired as a Master Trooper with the State Highway Patrol. His 30 years with the law enforcement agency – every one spent with Troop C District 4 – was a remarkable achievement.

But N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon put some icing on the proverbial cake Sunday, Mar. 10 and presented Martin with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian honor the state gives.

Sossamon presented Martin with the award at Tungsten Baptist Church with family, friends, retired co-workers, current Highway Patrol employees, members of the community and members of the church looking on.

Throughout his career, Martin garnered numerous accolades and recognitions for his exceptional service to the community. As a Trooper Training Officer, he played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of law enforcement professionals, imparting his wisdom and expertise to ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens he swore to protect.

This dedication was underscored by the acquisition of several certificates, each a testament to his commitment to excellence. He earned an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice from Vance Granville Community College, laying the educational foundation for a distinguished career. He was also certified as a VASCAR Operator, Radar Operator, and Breathalyzer Operator, all of which showcased his proficiency in the latest law enforcement technologies and techniques.

Beyond his career in law enforcement, Martin is a proud Mason, exemplifying his commitment to principles of fellowship, charity, and personal growth. He has been a member at Tungsten Baptist Church since 1973, which is a testament to his strong faith and enduring dedication to his community.

Following his retirement from the SHP, Martin continued his service as a Vance County deputy sheriff for eight years. During this tenure, he served as both security for the court and court Bailiff, ensuring the smooth administration of justice in the county.

Within his cherished Tungsten Baptist Church, Martin has held various vital roles, including deacon, Sunday School teacher, and Superintendent of Sunday School. He is known to lend his technical skills by operating the soundboard during church services and offering comfort through prayer when needed.

Bill Martin’s life is a remarkable journey of dedication, faith and service. His enduring commitment to his community, both in his career and within the church, has left an indelible mark that continues to inspire and uplift those around him. Martin’s legacy is one of selflessness, and his impact on Troop C District 4 and Tungsten Baptist Church will be remembered for generations to come.

Vance Sheriff Curtis Brame: Two Arrested On Drugs, Weapons Charges

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– Information from Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame

On Friday, Mar. 8, the Vance County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant for illegal drugs at a residence located at 87 Pueblo Lane near the Vance and Franklin county line.  Entry into the home was gained by tactical units from both counties. No injuries were reported.

Two men were arrested and charged with various drug offenses:

Demarius Vass was charged with:

Possession of a Weapon of Mass Destruction (A Glock pistol converted to fully automatic)

Felony Maintaining a Dwelling

Possession of Marijuana

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Vass was placed under a $20,000 bond.

A second person, Jatavious Boyd, was charged with:

Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Heroin (2 Counts)

Felony Maintaining a Dwelling

Possession of Marijuana

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 Counts)

Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

No bond was issued for Boyd because at the time of his arrest, he was out on bond for a previous charge.

Law enforcement officers recovered 100 Dosage Units of Heroin as well as approximately 2 grams of a substance suspected to be Cocaine Hydrochloride.  Four firearms and an undisclosed amount of US Currency was also seized.

Multi-Agency investigations into illegal drug trafficking will continue throughout both Vance and Franklin counties, to include the assistance of the NCSBI and other local jurisdictions.

 

 

Maria Parham Offers Program To Raise Awareness of Colorectal Cancer

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Maria Parham Health will host a Lunch and Learn program on Thursday, Mar. 21 to talk about colorectal cancer early detection and prevention. Seats are still available for this event; register online at MariaParham.com or by calling 252.436.1605. The program will be from 12 noon to 1 p.m. and will be held in the classroom of the hospital, located at 566 Ruin Creek Rd.

According to information from the American College of Radiology, colorectal cancer is now the leading cancer killer in men under 50 and the second leading cause of cancer death for women under 50.

African Americans are also the most likely to die from this terrible disease.

But colorectal cancer is nearly always treatable if caught early and can even be prevented through timely screening. It is recommended that you should talk to your doctor about colorectal screening beginning at age 45.

“We are committed to raising awareness about colorectal cancer and providing our community with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health,” said Kimberly Smith, Director of the Maria Parham Cancer Center.

“Through events like this, we hope to highlight the importance of early detection and screening in preventing colorectal cancer, ultimately saving lives,”Smith said.

Federal law requires private insurers to cover not only colonoscopy – but also virtual colonoscopy and other less-invasive screening options at no cost to patients.

A virtual colonoscopy is an American Cancer Society-recommended screening exam to be done every five years for those at average risk. The virtual exam may also be an option for those at increased risk who can’t physically tolerate a colonoscopy. The more people are aware of virtual colonoscopy as an option, the more people choose to be screened, and the more lives will be saved.

The Lunch and Learn Event will feature board-certified gastroenterologist Varnita Tahiliani, MD, who will discuss various aspects of colorectal cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, screening options, treatment modalities, and lifestyle modifications for prevention. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with healthcare professionals in an interactive setting.

Lunch will be provided. Due to space restrictions, registrations will be limited to the first 30 attendees that register.

For more information about the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Lunch and Learn Event, please visit www.MariaParham.com.

Vance County High School

Vance County Vipers Getting It Done, From Admin To Students

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Editor’s note: This Viper Highlights is the first in a series of updates from Vance County Schools’ Chief Communication Officer Aarika Sandlin to help inform, update and educate the community about what’s going on at Vance County High School. Read, enjoy and learn about the school’s administrative team and what its students are up to.

Vance County High School stands as a beacon of innovation and opportunity, where education extends far beyond the classroom walls. With dedicated leadership, a diverse and comprehensive curriculum and a commitment to hands-on learning and real-world experiences, VCHS prepares students not only for academic success but also for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their careers and lives. As students graduate from VCHS, they carry with them not only knowledge and skills, but also a sense of purpose and readiness to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Through various initiatives, partnerships, and outreach programs, VCHS actively contributes to the betterment of the community, fostering a culture of service, empathy, and collaboration. Truly, VCHS is shaping the leaders of tomorrow, instilling in them the values of excellence, integrity, and service, while positively impacting Vance County, the community they call home.

Principal Leading with Vision and Dedication 

Principal Dr. Nealie Whitt, III has been instrumental in driving positive change since assuming his role over a year ago. Renowned for his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to student success, Whitt has earned the respect and admiration of the entire school community. His approachable demeanor and genuine concern for the welfare of students and staff alike have fostered a strong sense of community within the school. Through active engagement with students and support for the staff, Whitt has created an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Students and staff have spoken highly of Whitt’s dedication and support, affirming the positive impact he has made. His efforts to meet students’ needs and ensure their comfort and safety continued to be respected and praised by many. Whitt’s influence extends beyond academics, with a dedicated focus on supporting all aspects of student life, including athletics. His equal support for both men’s and women’s sports has not gone unnoticed, further solidifying his status as a beloved figure within the school. Whitt remains committed to fostering academic excellence, inclusivity, and empowering students to realize their full potential, ensuring that Vance County High School continues to thrive under his leadership.

The Dream Team: VCHS Assistant Principals 

Assisting Whitt in his mission are the exceptional assistant principals, McShell Edmonds,. Scott Corrente, Orlando Terry, and Michael Terry, collectively referred to as the Dream Team. Their dedication to student success and growth exemplifies excellence in education and unwavering support for the school community. Edmonds leads the 9th Grade

Academy, setting a standard of dedication and commitment, while earning admiration from students for her tireless efforts. She is committed to ensuring academic achievement for students and serves as a compassionate mentor. Corrente, overseeing sophomore administration, has a friendly demeanor and inspirational presence, serving not only as an administrator but also as a trusted confidant and mentor to students. O. Terry, responsible for junior class administration, is lauded for his nurturing nature and the welcoming environment he fosters, likened to a caring guardian by students. Completing this stellar lineup is M. Terry, the senior class administrator, known for his warmth, wit and genuine concern for students’ well-being, while playing a pivotal role in shaping academic and career pathways. Together, this team empowers students and cultivates a supportive environment where every individual can thrive, leaving a lasting impact on the entire school community.

Dedicated Teachers and Staff 

The profound commitment to student success at VCHS is evident through the unwavering dedication of its teachers and staff. Beyond their daily responsibilities, they invest their time and energy into shaping the academic and personal growth of their students, fostering a supportive community where every member plays a vital role. Whether it is counselors offering invaluable guidance, teachers providing extra help, or custodians ensuring a safe environment, the collective efforts of the VCHS team create an atmosphere of learning and growth.

VCHS: Where Education Extends Beyond the Classroom Walls 

At Vance County High School, education transcends traditional boundaries, offering a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for both academic excellence and real-world success. The school offers a diverse array of educational opportunities including Career and Technical Education courses that include Culinary Arts Applications, Early Childhood Development and Services, Law and Justice, Plant Systems, Carpentry, Automotive Services, Biomedical Technology, Entrepreneurship, Public Safety, Emergency Management, Computer Science Principles, Food and Nutrition, and Career Management. Additionally, students have opportunities to pursue art, journalism, theater, chorus, band, and ROTC, empowering students to explore a wide range of interests and career pathways. Additionally, VCHS students have internship opportunities in local daycare centers, providing students with valuable real-world experience and further enhancing their readiness for the workforce. This robust curriculum ensures that VCHS students graduate well-prepared for the challenges of the future, equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society.

Our Students: VCHS Class of 2024, Vipers are College Bound 

The VCHS Class of 2024 is demonstrating remarkable initiative and ambition in the college application process. With 103 seniors having submitted at least one application and 63 applying to three or more colleges, their proactive approach reflects a commitment to exploring diverse opportunities. Out of 201 seniors, a total of 687 applications have been sent out, resulting in 319 acceptances thus far. As decision letters continue to arrive, the VCHS community eagerly anticipates celebrating the success of these college-bound Vipers, poised to make their mark on the world with determination and ambition.

TownTalk: City Council Addresses Attendance Policy

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At its March meeting Monday evening, the Henderson City Council voted 6-2 to adopt a policy concerning attendance at council meetings. At issue, among other things, was what constitutes an excused absence versus an unexcused absence and just how – and who – would decide which was which.

The proposed wording didn’t include “work” in the excused list, and it did include the 12 set monthly meeting dates – already on the calendar – as well as any “special called meetings,” which aren’t on the calendar ahead of time.

After a lot of back-and-forth discussion, Council member Ola Thorpe-Cooper made a motion, seconded by Council member Michael Venable to approve the attendance policy, with a revision that excludes the special called meeting wording.

Joining Cooper and Venable with yes votes were Council members Geraldine Champion, Garry Daeke, Sam Seifert and Tami Walker; Council members Lamont Noel and Sara Coffey voted against the motion.

According to City Manager Terrell Blackmon, the policy review came out of the council’s recent strategic planning session. As it stands now, council members aren’t supposed to miss four meetings in a single calendar year.

However, if they are unable to attend a meeting in person, they can join virtually and cast votes remotely, as long as their absence is considered an “excused” absence.

Noel did not agree that fellow council members be the deciding body to determine whether an absence is excused or unexcused; individual council members are supposed to inform the clerk when they know they will be absent.

Mayor Melissa Elliott offered an example to the group, saying that she had been able to vote when she was out of town for work, but she was not able to vote when she joined virtually while on vacation.

The council agreed to fall back to Robert’s Rules of Order and handle the absences procedurally when the roll is called at each council meeting, at which time the clerk would inform the council of the reason for a member’s absence.

Discussion about special called meetings included comments from Council member Noel, who said those meetings, usually held during normal business hours, shouldn’t be part of the attendance policy.

“Some of us are working,” he said.

Daeke acknowledged that daytime meetings “may be a bit much for some folks.” He said he used 42 hours of vacation time last year alone to satisfy council attendance policies. “Not everybody has that capability,” he said.

 

 

The Local Skinny! Council Tables Formation Of Separate Main Street Advisory Board

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The Henderson City Council discussed forming a separate advisory board to support Main Street Director Tracy Madigan in her efforts as a city employee to ensure that the city doesn’t jeopardize its designation in the national program, but decided to table a decision until council learns more about the job description and purpose of the board.

Council member Garry Daeke asked City Manager Terrell Blackmon for more information about the formation of the advisory board, as well as what its job would be and how it would complement or coordinate with the Henderson-Vance County Downtown Development Commission, a nonprofit formed in 1986 to support and promote downtown revitalization efforts.

In a follow-up email to WIZS, Daeke said he believes the timing is so that the city will increase its funding to the program as budget decisions are being made. “I just wanted something that explained this “new” committee, and how it is different from present DDC,” Daeke said in the email, adding that he would like to have clearly defined roles and a program description before the council makes any decisions.

“The Main Street Program belongs to the city, not the DDC,” Blackmon told Council members Monday. As a city employee, Madigan is charged with making sure the city follows the Main Street guidelines.

Blackmon said Henderson regained its Main Street community designation, and since that time, “we’ve been utilizing the Henderson DDC as a vehicle for meeting a lot of the Main Street requirements.”

But the Main Street program belongs to the city, not to the DDC, he added.

Having a separate 5-7 member advisory committee would not preclude coordination with the DDC, but Blackmon said it would focus on the core categories that the national program requires for designation as a Main Street City.

“The DDC is a great partner,” Blackmon said.

Madigan told council members the city is looking at having a little more focus and control over a program that it funds and oversees.

The city budget allocates $25,000 to the Main Street project administration, with an additional $1,500 from the county. Fundraisers like the Festival of Trees event during December are events that add to the bottom line.

Madigan said a board would address an increased volunteer presence with the Main Street program, but the biggest struggle remains funding, which is a key point in Main Street guidelines.

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TownTalk: Property Tax Revaluation

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Property owners in Vance County have been waiting – and waiting – for those tax revaluation notices to hit their mailboxes, but so far, it’s just bills, junk mail and candidates’ postcards.

At their board meeting on Mar. 4, commissioners were told that the notices would be sent out “in the next few weeks.”

In a followup conversation with Vance County Manager C. Renee Perry earlier Monday, Perry reported that Tax Administrator Porcha Brooks said the notices will go out by the end of this week.

County residents have been bracing for news of what most certainly will be an increase in the value of their property – it’s been eight years since the last revaluation, after all. Expected increases in Vance County range from 67 percent to 72 percent, with a base increase of 55 percent. And that doesn’t include the actual land values, said Ryan Vincent, who updated commissioners during last week’s  meeting.

Most all of the county’s property owners will see an increase in their property revaluation – 93 percent, in fact. And it all will be revealed in those notices, which were originally supposed to be received in February.

In addition to indiviudals and businesses, however, county staff and elected officials also need that information to inform their budget process, which is usually approved before the new fiscal year begins July 1.

Once property owners get their new valuations, they have time to appeal if they don’t agree, said Ryan Vincent, whose company was in charge of this revaluation process, which began a couple of years ago.

“The plan is to mail notices in the next two to three weeks,” Vincent explained to commissioners on Mar. 4. The notices are NOT bills; tax bills would be sent in summer 2024.

Vincent said the deadline to appeal is May 6; after that, the county’s Equalization and Review Board would begin the process of deliberating the appeals.

Right now, the seven county commissioners serve as the E&R board; Commissioner Tommy Hester’s motion on Mar. 4 to form a separate board failed.

The 2016 revaluation saw 640 property owners appeal the tax value of their properties. Of those, all but 11 were settled during the informal appeals process and were settled within the tax department. Those 11 came before the board of commissioners, acting as the E&R board, for a decision.

This year’s revaluation most likely will bring a higher volume of appeals, simply because it’s been eight years since the last valuation, when some property owners even saw a decrease in their property’s assessed value.

Vincent said commissioners should plan to allow for “anywhere from 10 to 20 to maybe 30 working days to hear the appeals,” with those being full days – 6-8 hours each. “It’s a substantial time commitment,” he said, and something that likely couldn’t be done during regular evening meetings of the commissioners.

That’s on top of extra budget sessions that will undoubtedly be held over the next few months.

The E&R board must have a quorum – that’s four commissioners – to hold the hearings.

Perry stated “it’s definitely a tight timeline” but that “the plan is for the Board of E&R to open on May 6 and close on June 3. Appeals can be submitted as soon as notices are received. The last day to appeal will be June 3.” Vincent had noted to commissioners on Mar. 4 that the appeals window would be from April 1 to May 6, but Perry confirmed Monday that those dates had been adjusted since the commissioners’ meeting.

The City of Henderson also is dependent on the results of this revaluation process as it plans for the new budget, and City Manager Terrell Blackmon said he and his staff asked for – and received – the information from the county as soon as it was available.

In a written statement to WIZS News, Blackmon said, “Just for reference, the City is not just now looking at the schedule of values…and we have been using the data we have to begin working through the FY 24-25 budget process.  The City’s Finance staff and I have already completed our preliminary budget meetings with all department heads and we are crunching numbers as we speak trying to balance expenses with projected revenues based on our current tax rate and other various scenarios tied to the new schedule of values resulting from the revaluation process.  Staff and Council are aware of the potential burden taxpayers may experience when there is a revaluation and we will try to remain revenue neutral as a goal.  However, we also have to keep in mind that the City’s tax base has remained fairly unchanged the past several years… but our expenses continue to increase due to employee retention and other inflationary factors that impact our service delivery and ability to improve the City’s infrastructure.  We will work to find a balance that’s beneficial to both the City and our citizens.”

 

 

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Edward Woodlief Named 2023 Citizen Of The Year At Chamber Banquet

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When you see Edward Woodlief out and about in the community, or see his name pop up on your phone screen, you can bet that: 1) he will greet you warmly and ask how you’re doing; 2) he will make you chuckle with a quip or witty observation; and 3) he’s got tickets to an upcoming fundraiser to share.

Whether it’s chicken plates, pork butts – with sauce! – or Vidalia onions, Woodlief usually has his eye on raising funds for one group or another.

He’s “that” person behind the scenes, quietly and effectively making things happen. But at Thursday’s Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce 86th annual meeting and banquet, Woodlief took center stage for a few moments to accept the 2023 Citizen of the Year award.

EDWARD WOODLIEF AND MARGIER WHITE, 2024 BOARD CHAIRPERSON

And then, N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon put Woodlief in the spotlight a second time to present him with The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest state honor that a civilian can receive.

Woodlief said he started putting things together as 2022 Citizen of the Year recipient Jack Richardson began listing some details about this year’s awardee, including his work with his beloved Union Chapel Church, where is currently is the choir director and president of the men’s fellowship.

“Our citizen of the year was raised on a farm, where he learned that hard work is the key to getting things accomplished,” Richardson began. Woodlief has devoted himself to a variety of organizations through the years, including the Optimist Club, Kiwanis Club, American Legion Post 60, his church and the local Crime Stoppers.

“He’s a pillar of our community and we are so lucky to have him,” Richardson said in his remarks, adding that he is “so giving to friends, neighbors and strangers” alike.

A genuine example of a servant leader, Woodlief is someone who is happiest when he’s rolled up his sleeves to do good for those in need.

“I thank God for giving me a heart filled with love and compassion” for others, Woodlief said after receiving the award from Sossamon.

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At 80-something years “young,” Woodlief has outlived the Zeb Vance Ruritan Club, of which he was a member for four decades before it became inactive. But Woodlief continues one of the club’s service projects and single-handedly mows, weeds and tends the cemetery that the club had adopted.

And if you ever wondered how those flags “magically” appear on the graves of military veterans, well, it’s Woodlief.

“It’s been a pleasure,” Woodlief said as he accepted the award, which followed a warm, well-deserved round of applause.

He quickly mentioned all the others who work with him to make sure all these fundraisers and projects are successful – “We all work together to raise funds,” he said.

It comes as no surprise that Woodlief thanked his wife of 11 years, Velvet Satterwhite Woodlief, for being a faithful and supportive partner. WIZS listeners know that Velvet has been a weekend staple at the radio station for more than 20 years, from Country Grass on Saturday mornings, Choice Country Classics from 9 to noon and the Sunday afternoon Gospel Jamboree.

In his presentation, on behalf of Gov. Roy Cooper, Sossamon called Woodlief “a man of faith who loves Vance County.” His efforts come from his desire “to improve the quality of life to one and all,” he said.

“I think he was called,” Sossamon said, “to sell tickets.”

True to form, as the newest Citizen of the Year stood on the stage, he greeted the crowd, shared a light-hearted comment and then lowered the boom: There’s a chicken plate sale on Friday, Mar. 15. “All you have to do is see me afterwards.”

HENDERSON-VANCE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 86TH ANNUAL BANQUET ON THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024